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There are
three major types of skin cancer:
Basal Cell Carcinoma ,
the most common;
Squamous Cell Carcinoma
the second most common, and
Malignant Melanoma
the deadliest form of skin cancer.
Basal Cell Carcinoma
Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Malignant Melanoma
The major factors behind the development of
skin cancer are as follows: genetic predisposition,
age, and the degree of ultraviolet radiation
exposure (i.e., sunburns) which one has experienced.
There is usually a delay
from a series of intensive sun exposures to the
first skin cancer occurring. What is concerning to
physicians, is that we are seeing an increase in the
numbers of skin cancer cases that are occurring in
our younger population. Melanoma skin cancer is
an example of this, today ranking among the
deadliest type of cancer in women between the ages
of 25 and 30.
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Precancers and Superficial Skin Cancers
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SKIN CANCER
WEBSITES
Skin Cancer Info-Learn
more about skin cancer by contacting the
American Academy of Dermatology, then click on
"Skin Cancer Updates". An excellent source for
the latest in skin cancer news and "Safe Sun
Tips" for the entire family.
http://www.aad.org .
American Society for Mohs
Surgery - a wonderful resource to learn more
about this tissue sparing skin cancer surgery
advanced by dermatologic surgeons in the 1930s.
http://www.mohssurgery.org. |
Precancerous changes of
the skin (referred to as Actinic Keratosis) are also
increasing. It is estimated that from 5 to 20% of
precancers will develop into skin cancer (Squamous
cell subtype) without treatment.
Figure 1.
Actinic Keratosis -
the earliest form of precancer which can progress
into Squamous Cell Cancer.
Prevention and early
detection, however, remain the key to an excellent
outcome. By quickly recognizing a precancerous
lesion, an unusual mole or other non-healing sore
spot, you may quickly identify and eliminate any
potential cancer risk from your body.
If you are concerned about
a mole or spot, it is wise to have our experts evaluate the
lesion. Remember, early
prevention and diagnosis gives you the best chance
for a cure!
MOH'S SURGERY WEBSITE -
A detailed resource for those who could benefit from
Moh's surgery- a type of tissue surgery which is
aimed to preserve the maximal amount of skin when
removing skin cancer. This site was prepared by the
Johns Hopkins University Cancer Center.
http://www.med.jhu.edu/cancerctr/mohs/mohs.htm.
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